Abstract

The article addresses the complex interrelationship between the process of construction of the Chilean and the strengthening of what could be called “civil society” through the proliferation of civil associations of various kinds. It covers the period from 1857, when the Civil Code came into force and started to regulate the establishment of this kind of organization, until 1899. These are approximately four decades that allow us to analyze the boom of the establishment of civil associations whose aim was to fulfill different purposes. We argue that this process is interrelated and mutually influenced by the state’s expansion and both intersect through the configuration of a new concept of citizenship, fostered by the internal practices of these associations.